Three New WNV Cases in Mississippi

The Mississippi State Department of Health reports three new human cases of West Nile virus for 2012.

The new cases were reported in Jones (1), Lincoln (1), and Simpson (1) counties, bringing the state total to 236 cases and five deaths.

This is the highest number of WNV cases ever reported in Mississippi.

Health officials remind all Mississippians that although the weather is cooler now, West Nile virus can occur year-round, including the late fall and winter months.

Residents are reminded they still need to take precautions to protect themselves.

Peak season for WNV is July, August, and September in Mississippi, but mosquito-borne illnesses can occur year-round.

Mississippians should take appropriate precautions to reduce the risk of contracting WNV and other mosquito-borne illnesses: remove sources of standing water, especially after rainfall; install or repair screens on windows and doors; and if you will be in mosquito-prone areas, wear protective clothing (such as long-sleeved shirts and pants) during peak times from dusk until dawn, and use repellents containing DEET, or Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registered repellents for use on human skin. Always read the manufacturer's directions carefully before you put on a repellent.

Symptoms of WNV infection are often mild and may include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, a rash, muscle weakness or swollen lymph nodes. In a small number of cases, infection can result in encephalitis or meningitis, which can lead to paralysis, coma and possibly death.

Online Public Information File

Viewers with disabilities can get assistance accessing this station's FCC Public Inspection File by contacting the station with the information listed below. Questions or concerns relating to the accessibility of the FCC's online public file system should be directed to the FCC at 888-225-5322, 888-835-5322 (TTY), or fccinfo@fcc.gov.